Our journey started on September 28, 2008 when we found out we were pregnant. After losing two prior babies we were very scared and excited all at once. As months passed I slowly started to ease my worry and enjoy the miracle of motherhood. We were tested for Group B Strep at 36 wks. Knowing this was a routine test, I was not alarmed. When the doctor called back and said I was GBS positive, I was worried all over again. However, they assured me everything was fine and that 30% of all women test positive and I would just need an antibiotic at birth. Wanting to enjoy the rest of my pregnancy, I took those words to heart and trusted my little girl would be healthy. On June 3, 2009 Lola Bess Risien was born. I received the full recommended dosage of antibiotics and baby Lola appeared to be healthy and untouched by GBS. My prayers had been answered! God had finally given us a beautiful healthy baby!

Seventeen days later my joy turned to horror. We took Lola to the pediatrician the evening of June 19th for a routine check-up. At this appointment we told the doctor she didn't seem to be feeling well and told him her symptoms. He took her temp. and it was 99.5. He quickly told us that a low grade fever was not unusual and she was probably just going through a "fussy" period. We took her home that night confident that our baby would be feeling better soon. The next morning she woke with a fever of 101.6. She was rushed to the hospital where she died in just 2 short hours on June 20, 2009. The doctors told us she died due to late-onset GBS. Lola Bess was 17 days old. She had all the signs and symptoms and no one caught it. I am dedicated to educating people regarding Group B Strep infection and want to get the word out to all pregnant women and those who will someday become pregnant. In Loving Memory of Lola Bess Risien— Ashley Risien, TX, USA

Ashley has printed awareness flyers with her picture and has distributed thousands to doctor's offices and maternity stores.